Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Development Administration, emerging prominently in the post-World War II era, initially signified the application of management principles to the process of economic and social development, particularly in newly independent nations. It arose from the belief that efficient public administration was crucial for translating development plans into reality. However, the field quickly realized that development is a complex, multi-faceted process, not merely a technical exercise. Consequently, the term 'Development Administration' has evolved to encompass a wide range of approaches and viewpoints, reflecting the changing understanding of development itself. This answer will discuss how the term is best understood in its broad, encompassing sense.
The Evolution of Development Administration
Initially, Development Administration was heavily influenced by modernization theory and focused on replicating the Western model of development. This involved centralized planning, large-scale projects, and a top-down approach. The emphasis was on capital formation, infrastructure development, and technological transfer. The 1950s and 60s saw the rise of institutions like the World Bank and IMF, promoting this approach. However, this model often failed to address local contexts and needs, leading to limited success and even negative consequences.
Diverse Approaches within Development Administration
Over time, the field broadened to incorporate diverse perspectives and approaches. These can be categorized as follows:
- Traditional Public Administration Approach: Focused on efficiency, hierarchy, and control. Emphasized bureaucratic structures for implementing development plans.
- New Public Administration (NPA): Emerged in the late 1960s, advocating for equity, social justice, and citizen participation. NPA challenged the neutrality and value-free stance of traditional public administration.
- New Public Management (NPM): Popular in the 1980s and 90s, NPM emphasized market-oriented principles, decentralization, and performance measurement. It sought to improve efficiency and responsiveness through competition and customer focus.
- Good Governance Approach: Focuses on transparency, accountability, rule of law, and participation. Recognizes that good governance is a prerequisite for sustainable development. The UNDP’s governance reports (starting in 1990) significantly shaped this perspective.
- Participatory Development: Emphasizes the involvement of local communities in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of development projects. Recognizes that development must be people-centered and culturally sensitive.
- Sustainable Development: Integrates economic, social, and environmental considerations. Recognizes the need to balance present needs with the needs of future generations. The Brundtland Report (1987) popularized this concept.
Illustrative Examples
The contrasting approaches are evident in various development initiatives. For instance, the Green Revolution in India (1960s-70s) initially adopted a top-down, technology-driven approach, focusing on high-yielding varieties of seeds and fertilizers. While it increased food production, it also led to environmental problems and social inequalities. In contrast, the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) (2005) embodies a participatory approach, providing employment opportunities to rural households and empowering local communities.
The Role of Context
The effectiveness of any particular approach depends heavily on the specific context. What works in one country or region may not work in another. Factors such as political institutions, cultural norms, economic conditions, and social structures all play a crucial role. Therefore, Development Administration must be adaptable and context-sensitive.
| Approach | Key Features | Limitations |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional PA | Hierarchy, Efficiency, Control | Lack of responsiveness, Ignores equity |
| NPA | Equity, Participation, Social Justice | Potential for inefficiency, Political interference |
| NPM | Market-orientation, Decentralization | May exacerbate inequalities, Focus on short-term gains |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the term 'Development Administration' is indeed best understood in a broad sense. It is not a monolithic concept but rather a dynamic field encompassing a variety of approaches, perspectives, and strategies. The evolution of the field reflects a growing recognition of the complexity of development and the importance of context-specificity, participation, and sustainability. Effective Development Administration requires a flexible and adaptive approach, drawing on the strengths of different perspectives to address the unique challenges faced by each country and community.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.